Fix Your Travel Credit Card Mix So Your Points Actually Add Up

Build a credit card lineup that earns more travel rewards without becoming a full-time spreadsheet manager.

In this special video episode, hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to build the perfect travel credit card “wallet” to help you earn more rewards, unlock perks, and avoid common points mistakes. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Bilt’s revamped card lineup and new “Bilt Cash,” American Airlines rolling out free high-speed Wi-Fi, Alaska Airlines’ major fleet and route expansion plans, and Starlux’s new long-haul aircraft that could open up new routes (and new ways to book with points).

Then, Sally and Meghan dig into what a “perfect wallet” actually looks like for different travelers, including when it makes sense to add a second card, how multiple cards can affect your credit score, and why a simple “great-on-everything” card can be the foundation for most people. They also explore when premium “coupon book” cards are worth the stress, how to avoid spreading your points too thin across too many programs, and how popular combos like the Chase trifecta can help you earn faster. Plus, they answer a listener question from Tu, a self-described international nomad, about what — if any — cards would be helpful to add to their wallet when traveling internationally. 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• Bilt Card From Wells Fargo: No Longer Available, but New Versions Coming 

• Wells Fargo Autograph® Card Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee 

• Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards 

• American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits 

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards 

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card 

• Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution 

• Chase Freedom Flex Review: Multiple Bonus Rewards Wrapped in One Card

• Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review: Worth the Fee for Airline Loyalists

• Capital One Savor Review: Foodie-Focused Rewards, for No Annual Fee

• Amazon Prime Visa Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Store Card

• World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

• Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price

• Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable
  

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Bilt Card 2.0 Coming in February with Points for Mortgages
  

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